Miami Hurricanes continue to bring in talent

For the University of Miami, procuring talent for the 2013 football season did not end on National Signing Day. Since then, UM added several notable players, though one faces academic hurdles and two others must overcome a history of foot problems.

For the University of Miami, procuring talent for the 2013 football season did not end on National Signing Day. Since then, UM added several notable players, though one faces academic hurdles and two others must overcome a history of foot problems.

Since signing a 16-member class in February, UM added running back Corn Elder (Tennessee’s Mr. Football in 2011 and 2012), four-star receiver/tight end Derrick Griffin (at risk of not qualifying because of academics), linebacker Walter Tucker (a track star at Plantation American Heritage) and Julio Derosier (a three-star defensive end at Homestead who missed part of last season at College of the Sequoias in Visalia, Calif., with a foot injury).

Another late addition, receiver/tight end Ryheem Lockley, will attend junior college but plans to enroll at UM in January.

UM also landed a key transfer (Cincinnati punter Pat O’Donnell) and is in the process of adding Wisconsin defensive end David Gilbert, who will be eligible this season after producing 42 tackles, four sacks and three forced fumbles in 13 starts for Wisconsin last season. Gilbert’s paperwork still must be finalized, and he will be trying to stay healthy after a history of foot injuries.

Miami also is welcoming several notable walk-ons, including former Iowa running back De’Andre Johnson, Stephen Morris’ former teammate at Miami Pace High.

UM’s 2013 class is rated 19th by Rivals.com, and UM is counting on several freshmen to play immediately, starting with linebacker Alex Figueroa, a spring surprise.